The Curatorial Fellowship is designed to immerse young curators of African descent in a rigorous professional training program that will lead them through the conceptual and vocational components of working in the curatorial field. The schedule consists of three key aspects: organizational structure at MoCADA, professional development in the field, and curating an exhibition.

At MoCADA, the fellows work inter-departmentally in the development and implementation of the museum’s exhibitions, public programming, catalogs, publicity, grant writing, and web presence. In the field, the fellows build a professional network through a schedule of artist talks, symposia, research, travel and site visits to arts organizations and artist studios. All of these aspects are necessary to the fellows’ experience as they work together to curate an exhibition. The exhibition will be accompanied by public programs that will include an artist talk/panel, an exhibition walk through, and additional programs of their design.

At the close of the program, It is our hope that the fellows gain an awareness of the curatorial department’s involvement at every level of the museum, and become creative thinkers in their approach to curatorial practice.

Application Requirements

BA or BFA in Art History, Studio Art, Africana Studies, or a related field with a specialized interest in African/African American/African Diasporan visual arts

Undergraduate degree completed no earlier than May 2011. Applicants graduating in May 2013 are welcome to apply.

Strong writing and communication skills

A record of achievement in community organizing, programming, and/or events

A description of an original exhibition idea that aligns with the museum’s mission. The description should include an exhibition concept or key idea, and any artists that the applicant is considering (300 words)

A current resume

A list of two professional references. For each, please include the following: name, position, relationship to the applicant, email address and phone number. These references must also each submit a professional recommendation on behalf of the applicant. Recommenders should email letters directly tofellowship@mocada.org

A cover letter that outlines your reasons for applying

A two to three page professional or academic writing sample

A brief description of a recent exhibition that has made a lasting impact on you. Include the exhibition dates and location (300 words)

Please direct any questions toinfo@mocada.org. No phone calls please. Incomplete or late applications will not be reviewed.